Explore the Best of Florida: The Sunshine State’s Top Three Beaches

Explore the Best of Florida: The Sunshine State's Top Three Beaches

By Milly Shaikh, Intern at Team Shaikh Realty

Florida is the epitome of picturesque beaches and serene getaways. With miles of sandy shorelines and pristine waters, this sun-soaked state serves up a spectrum of beachfront paradises, making it a prime destination for all age groups. Team Shaikh Realty comprehends the importance of identifying the ideal beach location for your coastal living aspirations. This post showcases the top three beaches in Florida, each displaying its distinct charm and tranquility.

Melbourne Beach, a quaint town nestled on Florida's east coast just south of Cape Canaveral, is an oasis of tranquility. It boasts a relaxing and unhurried atmosphere, ideal for those seeking an escape from everyday stress. Visitors can immerse themselves in the nearby wildlife sanctuaries, savor mesmerizing sunsets over the Indian River Lagoon, and get a taste of Old Florida charm in this secret spot of a beach destination.

St. Augustine Beach, an enchanting coastal jewel in northeast Florida, is renowned for its historic allure and natural beauty. Featuring pristine sandy expanses, shimmering waves of the Atlantic Ocean, and a laid-back atmosphere, it provides a perfect sanctuary for beachgoers in search of relaxation and adventure. Whether it's uncovering historical landmarks or soaking up the sun, St. Augustine Beach guarantees a memorable experience for all visitors.

Last, but by no means least, is Cocoa Beach, situated on Florida's eastern seaboard. Its tranquil coastal ambiance, punctuated by the soothing sounds of lapping waves and spectacular sunrises, forms a peaceful haven for rest and rejuvenation. What distinguishes Cocoa Beach from other locations is its thriving surf culture, making it a favored haunt for surfing enthusiasts of all proficiency levels. Moreover, its close proximity to the Kennedy Space Center adds a unique aspect, allowing visitors to witness rocket launches and delve into space exploration history.

From the serene tranquility of Melbourne Beach to the historic charm of St. Augustine Beach, and the vibrant surf culture of Cocoa Beach, Florida's diverse coastal offerings provide something for everyone. With these beautiful beaches and endless sunshine, why not consider Florida as your next home? Here, a lifestyle of relaxed seaside living, with the expertise of Team Shaikh Realty, is simply a decision away.

Team Shaikh Realty LLC., is pleased to announce the sale of a 10.63 acre parcel of land in Sanford, FL for $1,897,400.

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Team Shaikh Realty LLC., is pleased to announce the sale of a 10.63 acre parcel of land in Sanford, FL for $1,897,400.

Team Shaikh Realty LLC., is pleased to announce the sale of a 10.63 acre parcel of land in Sanford, FL for $1,897,400. The land is being developed for industrial use and is located in a prime location near major highways and a railway.

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TEAM SHAIKH REALTY is excited to open its doors in Lake Mary, FL

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TEAM SHAIKH REALTY is excited to open its doors in Lake Mary, FL

Team Shaikh Realty LLC, owned by Florida Licensed Real Estate Broker Sonny Shaikh, is excited to announce the opening of its doors in Lake Mary, Florida.

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Sale of 2 Mercantile in Worcester, MA for $5.55 Million

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Sale of 2 Mercantile in Worcester, MA for $5.55 Million

We are pleased to broker the Sale of 2 Mercantile in Worcester, MA for $5.55 Million.

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Sell My Orlando House Fast

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]68 days from listing to close is the average time it takes to sell a home in the United States, according to Zillow. Still, there are several factors that can affect just how quickly this process can be completed.

If a search for “Sell my Orlando house fast” is what brought you here, it’s safe to assume you want to know what you can do to expedite this process ASAP. Below we offer some tips on this topic.

I Need These 5 tips to Sell my Orlando house fast

1. Sign On with a Realtor with a Great Track Record To Sell My Orlando House Fast

If you’re trying to sell your Orlando house fast, you need a realtor with a great track record. That being said, it’s not always easy to know if a Realtor is going to do an awesome job for you. One way to up your odds of having a positive and speedy experience is to check online reviews. People tend to be totally honest when talking about their home-selling experiences online.

Another way to spot a Realtor who likely has a great track record is to drive around your neighborhood. Look to see what names appear most on “sold” signs in front of homes that were recently put up for sale. These are the realtors most likely to sell your Orlando house fast.

The names you collect can be used to make a list of potential agents that may be right for you. Make a few initial calls or schedule in-person meetings to get a better feel for who you want to work with.

2. Clean the House and Stage It

There is such a thing as looking too “lived in” when it comes to making a house appealing to potential buyers, especially when you have a quick turnaround in mind. After all, appearance is everything when you’re trying to sell your Orlando house fast!

First, give your home a good general cleaning both inside and out. Pay particular attention to:

  • Yard clutter
  • Garden areas, hedges, bushes, or any trees on your property
  • Stray toys and other items you might otherwise leave out
  • Dishes in the sink
  • Floors – consider renting a shampooer to make carpeting appear fresh and clean

A general rule of thumb with furniture is to remove about half of it. You can always arrange for temporary storage when doing this. What this does is make your home look bigger and more appealing. So, it’s definitely worth the effort.

Also, have professional photos taken to further showcase the best features of your home. And since not everybody is a dog- or cat-lover, don’t have Rover or Fluffy around during showings. Dog and cat accessories should also be kept out of sight.

Finally, wrap up your staging efforts with little extras that might include:

  • Placing fresh flowers in your home
  • Depersonalizing your home
  • Allowing plenty of natural light in
  • Putting an inviting “welcome” mat by the front door
  • Neatly folding and displaying clean and fresh kitchen and bathroom towels
  • Putting some outdoor furniture out if you have a patio or deck

3. Make Yourself Available to Have Showings ASAP To Sell Your Orlando House Fast

You’re not going to sell your Orlando home fast if you’re not around for showings. This can be a bit difficult if you are working or in the process of getting ready to move to a new home. But the last thing you want is interested buyers moving on because they couldn’t get to see your home!

Give your Realtor your cellphone number so you can be called or texted when there’s a need to schedule a showing. This will allow you to be notified quickly so you can get yourself and your home ready as quickly as possible.

Another option with showings is to mix things up with private showings and open house events. This will give you an opportunity to showcase your home to as many potential buyers as possible.

4. Be Open to Entertain All Offers (within a Reasonable Range)

In order to know what a “reasonable range” is you’ll need to know the fair market value of your home. A reputable real estate agent can help you with this step. A home appraiser can do the same thing.

Once you know how much your home is worth, start entertaining all offers that come your way. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to automatically accept a lowball offer just to get the selling process over and done with. Remember, don’t just focus on the idea that I need to sell my house fast in Orlando. You can hold out for a better offer if you feel the one you’ve received isn’t good enough for you. 

What you can do, however, is be open to reasonable offers and be willing to negotiate. This is also a great time to point out any unique and appealing features your home might have that could justify insisting on a certain asking price range – e.g., proximity to local shopping and dining hot spots, a recently installed roof, etc.

5. (For Realtors) Market Your Properties Aggressively and Reach Out to All Available Contacts

If you’re a Realtor, aggressive marketing is what can result in speedy turnarounds. In addition to showcasing listings directly on your website, market your properties via your social media pages.

Also, if you have a list of contacts looking to buy, shoot them an email to let them know when you have new properties available! Aggressive home marketing could also involve:

  • Using paid online ads to sell your house fast in Orlando
  • Following up with emails or calls once contacts have expressed an interest
  • Being available to answer questions about the home without being overly assertive – there is such a thing as being too aggressive

End your search for “Sell my Orlando house fast” right here. Our goal is to make the process of selling your home as efficient and speedy as possible. Contact us today to get started.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Buying a Home Out Of State: A Concise Guide

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Purchasing a house, in general, can be a bit stressful if you’re new to the process. Buying a house out of state can be just as nerve-racking, especially if you’re not familiar with your desired new area or the process involved with out-of-state home buying.

You may feel like you’re at a disadvantage because you’re an out-of-state home buyer. However, there are some ways you can make the experience of buying a home out of state more rewarding and productive.

Hire a Buyer’s Agent

The first step to take when buying a house out of state is to hire a buyer’s agent in the state where you’ll be moving. A listing agent, while equally capable of handling this process, is more likely to represent the seller.

This means you may not get the best possible price for your new home since they’re not focused on your best interests. A buyer’s agent also won’t disclose your personal information unless you give permission for them to do so.

There are relocation specialists prepared to help you find a reputable buyer’s agent. Another option is to work with an agent or Realtor in your new location with a solid reputation based on the information you are able to find about them.

It’s also possible to go to open houses in the state you plan to move to find an agent. However, this may not be all too practical if long-distance travel is going to be an issue and hindrance.

Gather ‘Insider Info’ from Your Agent

A Realtor familiar with working with people buying a house out of state in the state where you will be moving can be a valuable source of information beyond what you can find online. For instance, if you are relocating to North Orlando, a reputable buying agent in this area can also give you details about:

  • Local schools
  • The nature of North Orlando communities
  • Proximity to shopping and dining areas
  • Local and state taxes

Plan to Look at Homes

Realistically, you’re probably not going to be able to make frequent trips from New York, California, Texas, or any other state you may live in just to check out possible new places to call home in Florida. Fortunately, a Realtor specializing in the needs of buyers can email you listings.

What’s more, these will be listings that match your preferences and price range. This can be a real time-saver when you are busy getting things ready for your move on your end.

It’s also not unusual today for these listings to include photos, videos, and even virtual tours. Listings of this nature can also make it easier for you to ask questions and narrow down your preferences.

Once you’ve zeroed in on one or two homes that really catch your eye, you can always make arrangements to fly in to see them in person on a weekend or a specific day of the week that’s convenient for you. This will give you a chance to get a feel for your potential new community before making a commitment.

Consider Electronic Signing

Buying a house out of state doesn’t necessarily require a series of back-and-forth flights. If you really need to wrap up an out-of-state purchase quickly, you can always sign an offer electronically.

Simultaneous Closing Issues

The process of selling an existing home in one state to buy a new one in another state sometimes can be complicated or impossible. Why? Because most banks funding a buyer’s new home won’t authorize a home loan until they have a statement confirming the sale of the buyer’s existing home. Hiring an experienced Realtor can help you navigate these pesky hurdles and make the process much easier for you.

Typical Process of Buying a Home Out of State

While there are exceptions, don’t count on being able to quickly orchestrate a simultaneous closing if you’ll be selling in one state and buying in another one. Instead, you’ll likely have more success if you take the following steps:

  • Closing on your existing home
  • Wiring the funds to the closer handling your new home purchase
  • Faxing the HUD (settlement) statement that confirms the sale of your existing home
  • Securing funds from your lender
  • Closing your new home purchase

Planning a Relocation to Orlando

If you’ll be moving to Orlando from another state, working with a reliable Realtor can absolutely make the entire process less stressful. An agent with knowledge of out-of-state purchases can help you out by:

  • Gathering initial details about your home preferences
  • Answering your questions about the Orlando area
  • Offering recommendations for local lenders
  • Serving as a link between you and sellers

A smart way to make the process of buying a house out of state stress-free is to work with a trusted and knowledgeable Realtor committed to making your new home purchase one you’ll be pleased with for many years to come. If your intended destination is North Orlando or the surrounding area, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How To Choose a Realtor: Buying And Selling

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The process of buying or selling a home can be stressful, especially if you attempt to bear most of the burden yourself. Thankfully, the right Realtor can make either the buying or selling process less stressful and more productive and rewarding. Here’s some advice to keep in mind as you start your search for right Realtor for your needs.

How to Choose a Realtor – The Basics

A search for “how to choose a Realtor to buy a home” will produce very different results than what you would get when searching for “how to choose a Realtor to sell a home.” This is because there are different factors to consider with each process.

If either one of these searches has brought you here, you’re in luck! We’re going to provide advice for both buyers and sellers on the hunt for the right Realtor.

Before getting started with your search, it can also be helpful if you know the following tidbits of info:

• Your general price range if you’re looking for a new home
• The current value of your home if you’re planning to sell
• Any unique needs or priorities you may have

How to Choose a Realtor to Buy a Home

Buying and listing agents have different roles as well. So, if you are working with a buying agent, don’t call the listing agent since they work for the seller. Some listing agents do work for dual agencies. However, there’s a potential for conflicts to arise.

So, a good starting point is to interview potential Realtors specializing in home buying. Just don’t interview agents from the same company. During your interview, ask about such things as:

• Their knowledge of your preferred area of town
• How many homes they’ve sold within your preferred location
• How involved they are in the buying process

Set your expectations with what you expect from the client-agent relationship. For instance, it’s common for agents to meet potential buyers at home showings. But most agents will be willing to pick you up if this is easier for you. Also, set expectations involving:

• Your general time frame for finding a home
• How you wish to be contacted – e.g., email, text, phone
• How flexible you can realistically be with the home’s price tag

Seasoned Realtors typically have no problem with letting you know what you are signing before you actually do so. But don’t contact a buying agent until you are absolutely ready to buy. It’s perfectly fine to attend open houses on your own if you’re still in the deciding phase.

How to Choose a Realtor to Sell a Home

A simple way to get started with finding a Realtor to sell your home is to take a drive around your neighborhood. Check out the real estate signs and pay particular attention to companies and individual names that pop up on multiple signs – especially ones with “sold” attached to them!

Another excellent way to find a real estate agent is to go to their “natural habitat” – open houses! Pay attention to the following details:

• How they interact with potential buyers
• Their personality and demeanor
• Whether they are overly aggressive or just assertive enough

You can also compare Realtors in a more subtle way by doing an online search. Read reviews posted by real clients. This will give you a better idea of what you can expect from the same agent.

Also, pay attention to how real estate agents respond to negative reviews. This will help you find agents who are responsive and willing to take extra steps to keep clients happy.

Referrals from friends, family members, and neighbors can be equally helpful. But still do in-person interviews with a handful of agents who’ve made your narrowed down list of prospects. During interviews, ask about such things as:

• How many homes they’ve sold recently
• How many active clients they have
• How they would go about marketing your home
• References they can give you so you can talk to some of their clients yourself
• Whether they primarily work with sellers or buyers
• If they are prepared to handle any unique needs or requests you may have

You’ll also want to discuss and set your expectations, clarify your motivation(s) for selling, and talk about how you want to handle home showings. Lastly, make sure you agree on details such as the list price, your flexibility with the asking price, and what would happen if your home doesn’t sell within a certain period of time.

No matter what your purpose is for choosing a Realtor, never underestimate the power of your gut instincts. When you meet with a potential agent, get a feel for their personality and demeanor. This individual will be a big part of a very important transaction in your personal and financial life, so it’s important to be fully comfortable with them.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

7 Reasons to Move to Florida in 2019

More than 21 million people already call the Sunshine State home, so if you are planning to move to Florida, you won’t be alone! Even a move within Florida, from city to city, especially to Central Florida, can be a smart relocation choice. Take a moment to consider the following seven reasons why a move to Florida in 2019 should definitely be on your personal agenda!

1. The Sun’s (Almost) Always Shining

If you move to Florida from New York or another northeastern state, you’ll instantly notice and appreciate the abundance of sunshine once you arrive. Apalachicola boasts the highest number of annual sunny days in the state with 128 (on average).

But you’ll still catch a lot of rays in Daytona Beach, Miami, Orlando, Fort Myers, Jacksonville, Pensacola, West Palm Beach, Tampa, and many other places in the state. What’s more, temperatures are routinely in the 60s and 70s even during the winter months!

2. Some of America’s Best Beaches Are Here

For times when the sun is making things a bit too hot, it won’t take you long to a find a cool, relaxing beach in Florida. In Key West, for example, you can grab your snorkel gear or put your swimwear on and head over to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

And paddle-boarding, surfing, swimming, sailing, and snorkeling are just some of the many ways you can enjoy Delray Beach. This is just one of nearly 700 beaches in Florida!

Of course, Miami’s beaches are iconic and perfect if you want to be close to active nightlife and trendy dining destinations once you get out of the water. And don’t forget to visit the beaches at Sanibel Island if you’re looking to add to or start your seashell collection!

3. Disney World

Since this is what comes to mind when most people think of Florida, it’s certainly worthy of a mention. Offering nearly 50 rides and an assortment of attractions and live shows, Disney World is almost like its very own city!

Sure, all things Disney are very tourist-friendly, but you’ll have the hometown advantage if you move to Florida, specifically in the Orlando area. You’ll also be able to visit during the off-season, and you won’t have to try to squeeze in everything within a limited number of days, either! Ever thought about a date night at Disney without the kids? It’s fun! You should try it once you find your dream home with Team Shaikh.

4. Amazing Eats

Because of the pleasant weather that’s commonplace in Florida, a move here means you’ll have plenty of year-round opportunities to sample tasty treats at outdoor parties and events. Food is also easily accessible at local farmer’s markets, parades, festivals, and other outdoor gatherings.

Become a Florida resident and you’ll also have access to top restaurants, including some with world-famous chefs. Your palate will be just as pleased with what’s offered at charming neighborhood diners and cafés.

5. The Housing Market Is Booming

Florida’s housing market is thriving big time! New homes are literally popping up all over the state, including many of the popular cities and towns located in Central Florida.

Even if a beautiful beachfront home isn’t in your budget, there are many existing single-family home, townhouses, and condos that are affordable. The state is also loaded with rental homes and apartments in many different price ranges.

6. It’s a Sports-Lovers Paradise

Home to several professional sports teams, Florida is a state where you won’t have to worry about finding a new favorite team to cheer on. You’ll be just as awestruck with the state’s many college and high-school teams.

Orlando City Soccer Club, the Orlando Pride, & Orlando Magic are just some of the top-notch franchises rooted in Central Florida. The state is also where the annual Daytona 500 takes place.

7. There’s No State Income Tax

If you need a practical incentive to move to Florida from New York or similar states with income tax, you’ll be pleased to know the Sunshine state does not have this tax!

So, feel free to use more of your hard-earned bucks when you move here to soak up the atmosphere at popular clubs, take in a concert, spend the day at a trendy festival, or treat yourself to a delicious meal at a five-star culinary hot spot.

Whether you are contemplating a move to Florida from New York, a move in Florida from one part of the state to another, or a relocation from elsewhere in the U.S. to the Sunshine State, you’ll have no shortage of reasons to call a place home where there’s always something to do, see, or enjoy!